The Shed: Historic Industrial Building Transformed into an Efficient Modern Home

The Shed by Richard Peters Associates is a historic adaptive reuse project that celebrates sustainable, efficient living. Located outside Sydney, Australia just steps from the Coogee beach, the industrial structure has been transformed into an open-air home that showcases remnants of the building’s former use. The Shed is a beautiful adaptive reuse project that combines green building with modern design on a tight budget.

The Shed was originally built in 1890 and housed a coach building garage owned by two Irish blacksmiths. A series of industrial business have occupied the garage-like space over the years, before it was converted into the current residential space. To set the stage for the energy efficient home, Richard Peters Associates outfitted the north facing side of the roof with an array of photovoltaic panels. The panels harness the ample sunlight and help power the residence.

Because the building was originally industrial, its large industrial doors and windows allow natural cross ventilation, creating a cool environment without need for an artificial air conditioning system. The poured concrete floor insulates and retains warmth in the winter and helps to cool in the summer.

The one-room structure was converted into a bi-level living space, complete with one bedroom, a study, two bathrooms, two courtyards, kitchen, living and dining area. An upstairs deck was added, as well as gardens outside, maximizing both the interior and exterior space. The Shed’s original corrugated ceiling exposed in the living room area is updated with freshly stained beams. In the second floor bedrooms, the corrugated metal is lined with a finished open beam ceiling to further insulate, and create a loft like feeling.

The Shed divides living space into efficient areas that creates an ideal and efficient method of living. By reusing existing structures, history is preserved, carbon footprints are lessened, and innovative and interesting living spaces can flourish and inspire.